By Aaron Wilson
Growing up in South Africa, Marno Redelinghuys didn’t necessarily envision how his rugby career would unfold.
The twisting journey from Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom to North-West University to Stellenbosch University, the Varsity Cup, Western Province and the Currie Cup and Rugby Challenge all set the stage for where Redilinghuys is today.
Redelinghuys, 31, earned his 50th Cap in Major League Rugby on Saturday night when the SaberCats host the San Diego Legion at home. The SaberCats are hosting a UH Night: Uniting with the University of Houston.
Known as “Marries,” the 6-foot-5, 255-pound back row-lock is in his third season with the SaberCats and his fifth season overall in Major League Rugby.
“It’s a massive privilege,” Redelinghuys said. “Being in the league for this long and being able to get my 50th Cap in this next game coming up, it’s always an honor. And it’s a big honor to play in a SaberCats jersey.”
Redelinghuys is a key contributor for the 6-1 SaberCats, who began the season 5-0 as the final remaining undefeated team in the league.
He played 1,103 minutes in 16 matches with 13 starts last season for a 10-win playoff squad. He started eight matches in 2022 before playing for the Life University Men’s Club in the Fall American Rugby Premiership and graduating from Life University.
In 2021, he started 14 matches for Rugby ATL.
The former Hoërskool Schoonspruit student first began playing rugby with the Leopards in his native South Africa.
“Rugby is a strange game,” Redelinghuys said. “It takes you to a lot of places. You meet a lot of people along the way. Unexpected opportunities always arise. I’ve played in multiple championship games.
“I’ve been lucky enough to win two championships. I haven’t gotten a taste of a Major League Rugby shield yet. I’m very hungry and eager to get that accomplishment done.”
Living in Houston has been a joy for Redelinghuys, who has adapted to the American lifestyle. Whether it’s the cuisine, the friendly atmosphere or music scene, Redelinghuys is soaking it all up.
“People always ask me that question about Houston,” Redelinghuys said. “Something that’s really stood out to me about this place is the cowboy lifestyle. I feel like I almost fit right in. We’re all trying to be a part of the vibe. Houston is a great city. I think people underestimate the city. It’s very diverse. The food is always great. There’s a lot of great culture, too.”
The SaberCats are pushing for their third consecutive playoff berth. The goal has always been crystal-clear: winning a championship.
Redelinghuys is enjoying the hunt for the shield.
“At the end of the day, we’re an entire squad of 35 players and all the coaches, staff and management,” Redelinghuys said. “Everybody buys in and is really committed to win this championship. It’s a very positive vibe at work.”
